The Use of Role-Playing Exercises in Teaching Undergraduate Astronomy and Physics
Paul J. Francis, Aidan P. Byrne, PASA, 16 (2), 206
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Next Section: Introduction
Contents Page: Volume 16, Number 2

The Use of Role-Playing Exercises in Teaching Undergraduate Astronomy and Physics

Paul J. Francis^1,2 - Aidan P. Byrne^1,3

¹ Department of Physics and Theoretical Physics, Faculty of Science, Australian National University, Canberra 0200
paul.francis & aidan.byrne@anu.edu.au
² Joint appointment with the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics
³ Joint appointment with the Department of Nuclear Physics, Research School of Physical Sciences and Engineering

Abstract:

The use of role-playing exercises in teaching university astronomy and physics can enliven lectures, deepen student understanding and dramatically increase the level of classroom interaction. A series of case-studies are presented, illustrating the nature of this technique, its advantages and some of its pitfalls. Several ready-to-run exercises are included.

Keywords: miscellaneous -- undergraduate teaching